Swivel attachment and branch line restraint

ABSTRACT

A swivel attachment and/or branch line restraint device with angular versatility and mobility for facilitating connection of installation components to support a pipe or other load relative to a support surface is provided. Advantageously, embodiments of the device provide a plurality of rotational or swivel degrees of freedom, which are substantially independently controllable, for its mating portions, which respectively engage corresponding mating portions of other installation components. The device embodiments can desirably be configured in male-female, male-male or female-female arrangements to enhance device utility and/or versatility, thereby advantageously allowing for use in a myriad of applications and installations, such as construction, utilities and the like, among others, to reliably support loads.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/104,313, filed Apr. 16, 2008, which claims the priority benefit ofU.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/913,025, filed Apr. 20,2007, entitled SWIVEL ATTACHMENT AND BRANCH LINE RESTRAINT. Thedisclosures of the above-referenced applications are hereby incorporatedby reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to devices for supportingutility loads and the like. More particularly, the present inventionrelates to a swivel attachment and/or branch line restraint device thatprovides enhanced angular versatility in the connection of installationcomponents to support a pipe, branch line or other load suspended from asupport surface, against undesirable sway such as may be caused byseismic disturbances.

2. Description of the Related Art

There are many products and assemblies used by construction, building,plumbing and electrical contractors and workers for bracing andsupporting pipes, ducts, sprinkler systems, fans, air-conditioners,electrical cables, communication lines and other loads from ceilings,beams, studs, walls and floors. These products include clamps, braces,cables, hooks, straps, hangers, plates, and brackets, among other items.

Many installations involve the coupling or connection of componentswhich are angularly offset relative to one another. Typical devices usedto provide such orientations have several drawbacks.

In many cases, a number of installation components have to be utilizedto provide the desired installation structure. Disadvantageously, theuse of numerous such components not only adds to the cost, but alsoundesirably adds to the installation time, which further adds to theoverall cost.

In several cases, conventional installation components used forconnection purposes can lack the desired degree of versatility toprovide a reliable and/or compact installation. In these cases, customcomponents may have to be manufactured in an attempt to achieve thedesired goal. Again this undesirably adds to the overall cost, and mayalso disadvantageously not provide for efficient use and utility.

Many devices commonly used in the industry for connection purposes in aninstallation can be difficult to install and expensive. Additionally,and undesirably, these devices may not be suited for reliably sustainingloads.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Some embodiments of the present invention advantageously provide aswivel attachment and/or branch line restraint device with angularversatility and mobility for facilitating connection of installationcomponents to support a pipe or other load relative to a supportsurface. Advantageously, in accordance with certain embodiments, thedevice provides a plurality of rotational or swivel degrees of freedom,which are substantially independently controllable, for its matingportions, which respectively engage corresponding mating portions ofother installation components. The device provides various embodimentswhich can desirably be configured in male-female, male-male orfemale-female arrangements to enhance device utility and/or versatility,thereby advantageously allowing for use in a myriad of applications,installations, and the like, to reliably sustain loads.

Certain embodiments provide a swivel attachment generally comprising arotatable barrel, a saddle, a rotatable stud and a connector pin. Therotatable barrel generally comprises a first mating portion that isrotatable relative to a first rotation axis and substantially in a firstplane. The saddle generally houses the barrel and generally comprises aslot exposing at least a portion of the first mating portion. Therotatable stud generally comprises a second mating portion that isrotatable relative to a second rotation axis and substantially in asecond plane. The connector pin couples the barrel, the saddle and thestud such that the first mating portion and the second mating portionare substantially independently rotatable for connection to respectiveinstallation components.

Certain embodiments provide a swivel attachment generally comprising afirst portion, a second portion and a coupling mechanism. The firstportion generally comprises a rotatable first mating portion. The secondportion generally comprises a rotatable second mating portion. Thecoupling mechanism is substantially intermediate the first portion andthe second portion, and connects the first portion and the secondportion to provide or enable substantially independent rotation betweenthe first mating portion and the second mating portion.

Certain embodiments provide a method of supporting a load using a swivelattachment. The method generally comprises rotating a first portion ofthe swivel attachment and matingly connecting the first portion to afirst installation component wherein the first portion generallycomprises a first mating portion. A second portion of the swivelattachment is rotated and matingly connected to a second installationcomponent wherein the second portion generally comprises a second matingportion. The rotating of the first and second portions generallycomprises substantially independent rotation between the first matingportion and the second mating portion, and wherein the firstinstallation component is connected to the load and the secondinstallation component is connected to a support structure.

For purposes of summarizing the invention, certain aspects, advantagesand novel features of the invention have been described herein above. Ofcourse, it is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantagesmay be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of theinvention. Thus, the invention may be embodied or carried out in amanner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantagesas taught or suggested herein without necessarily achieving otheradvantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

All of these embodiments are intended to be within the scope of theinvention herein disclosed. These and other embodiments of the inventionwill become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from thefollowing detailed description of the preferred embodiments havingreference to the attached figures, the invention not being limited toany particular preferred embodiment(s) disclosed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus summarized the general nature of the invention and some ofits features and advantages, certain preferred embodiments andmodifications thereof will become apparent to those skilled in the artfrom the detailed description herein having reference to the figuresthat follow, of which:

FIGS. 1-3 are simplified perspective views of a swivel attachmentillustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a simplified perspective view of a barrel of the swivelattachment of FIGS. 1-3 illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a simplified bottom view of the barrel of FIG. 4 illustratingfeatures and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 6 is a simplified end view of the barrel of FIG. 4 illustratingfeatures and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 7 is another simplified bottom view of the barrel of FIG. 4(showing some hidden lines) illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 8 is another simplified end view of the barrel of FIG. 4 (showingsome hidden lines) illustrating features and advantages in accordancewith certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a is a simplified perspective view of a saddle of the swivelattachment of FIGS. 1-3 illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a simplified side view of the saddle of FIG. 9 illustratingfeatures and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 11 is a simplified end view of the saddle of FIG. 9 illustratingfeatures and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 12 is a simplified bottom view of the saddle of FIG. 9 illustratingfeatures and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 13 is a simplified planar view of the saddle of FIG. 9 illustratingfeatures and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 14 is a simplified end view of the planar saddle view of FIG. 13illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a simplified perspective view of a tee swivel stud of theswivel attachment of FIGS. 1-3 illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a simplified front view of the swivel stud of FIG. 15illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 17 is a simplified side view of the swivel stud of FIG. 15illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 18 is a simplified top view of the swivel stud of FIG. 15illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 19 is another simplified front view of the swivel stud of FIG. 15(showing some hidden lines) illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 20 is another simplified side view of the swivel stud of FIG. 15illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 21 is another simplified top view of the swivel stud of FIG. 15(showing some hidden lines) illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 22 is a simplified side view of a rivet member of the swivelattachment of FIGS. 1-3 illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 23 is a simplified end view of the rivet member of FIG. 22illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 24 is a simplified perspective view of another rivet member ofFIGS. 1-3 (comprising a modified rivet head and being partiallyassembled) illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 25 is a simplified side view of the partially assembled rivetmember of FIG. 24 illustrating features and advantages in accordancewith certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 26 is a simplified end view of the partially assembled rivet memberof FIG. 24 illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 27 is a simplified view of an installation using the swivelattachment of FIGS. 1-3 as a structural attachment component of an endof branch restraint illustrating features and advantages in accordancewith certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 28 is a simplified view of an installation using the swivelattachment of FIGS. 1-3 as an upper attachment with short hanger rod toomit seismic bracing illustrating features and advantages in accordancewith certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 29 is a simplified view of an installation using the swivelattachment of FIGS. 1-3 in a pitched roof application illustratingfeatures and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 30 is a simplified view of a clevis hanger for use in conjunctionwith the swivel attachment of FIGS. 1-3 to form an installationillustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 31 is simplified views of a surge restrainer for use in conjunctionwith the swivel attachment of FIGS. 1-3 to form an installationillustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 32 is simplified views of a reversible C-type beam clamp for use inconjunction with the swivel attachment of FIGS. 1-3 to form aninstallation illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 33 is simplified views of a ceiling plate for use in conjunctionwith the swivel attachment of FIGS. 1-3 to form an installationillustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 34 is a simplified view of a threaded rod for use in conjunctionwith the swivel attachment of FIGS. 1-3 to form an installationillustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 35 is simplified views of an adjustable band hanger for use inconjunction with the swivel attachment of FIGS. 1-3 to form aninstallation illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 36 is a simplified perspective view of a of a male-female swivelattachment illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain other embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 37 is a simplified side view of the swivel attachment of FIG. 36illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 38 is a simplified top view of the swivel attachment of FIG. 36illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 39 and 40 are simplified perspective views of a of a female swivelattachment member of the swivel attachment of FIG. 36 illustratingfeatures and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 41 is a simplified side view of the female swivel attachment memberof FIGS. 39 and 40 illustrating features and advantages in accordancewith certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 42 is a simplified front view of the female swivel attachmentmember of FIGS. 39 and 40 illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 43 is a simplified top view of the female swivel attachment memberof FIGS. 39 and 40 illustrating features and advantages in accordancewith certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 44 is a simplified bottom view of the female swivel attachmentmember of FIGS. 39 and 40 illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 45 is a simplified perspective view of a of a male swivelattachment member of the swivel attachment of FIG. 36 illustratingfeatures and advantages in accordance with certain embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 46 is a simplified side view of the male swivel attachment memberof FIG. 45 illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 47 is a simplified top view of the male swivel attachment member ofFIG. 45 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 48 is a simplified perspective view of a of a male-female swivelattachment illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain further embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 49 is a simplified side view of the swivel attachment of FIG. 48illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 50 is another simplified side view of the swivel attachment of FIG.48 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 51 is a simplified perspective view of a of a male-male swivelattachment illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 52 is a simplified side view of the swivel attachment of FIG. 51illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 53 is another simplified side view of the swivel attachment of FIG.50 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 54 is a simplified perspective view of a of a female-female swivelattachment illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 55 is a simplified side view of the swivel attachment of FIG. 54illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 56 is another simplified side view of the swivel attachment of FIG.54 illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 57 is a simplified perspective view of a saddle/center of theswivel attachments of FIGS. 48, 51 and 54 illustrating features andadvantages in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 58 is a simplified side view of the swivel attachment saddle/centerof FIG. 57 illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 59 is another simplified side view of the swivel attachmentsaddle/center of FIG. 57 illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 60 is a simplified top view of the swivel attachment saddle/centerof FIG. 57 illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 61 is a simplified planar view of the swivel attachmentsaddle/center of FIG. 57 illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 62 is a simplified perspective view of a female member of theswivel attachments of FIGS. 48 and 54 illustrating features andadvantages in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 63 is a simplified side view of the female member of FIG. 62illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 64 is another simplified side view of the female member of FIG. 62illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 65 is a simplified bottom view of the female member of FIG. 62illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 66 is a simplified perspective view of a male member of the swivelattachments of FIGS. 48 and 51 illustrating features and advantages inaccordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 67 is a simplified side view of the male member of FIG. 66illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 68 is another simplified side view of the male member of FIG. 66illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 69 is a simplified top view of the male member of FIG. 66illustrating features and advantages in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention.

FIGS. 70-72 are simplified perspective views of a of a cable swivelattachment illustrating features and advantages in accordance withcertain further embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The preferred embodiments of the invention described herein relategenerally to devices for supporting utility loads and the like and, inparticular, to a swivel attachment and/or branch line restraint devicewhich provides enhanced angular versatility in the connection ofinstallation components to support a pipe, branch line or other loadsuspended from a support surface, against undesirable sway and seismicdisturbances.

While the description sets forth various embodiment specific details, itwill be appreciated that the description is illustrative only and shouldnot be construed in any way as limiting the invention. Furthermore,various applications of the invention, and modifications thereto, whichmay occur to those who are skilled in the art, are also encompassed bythe general concepts described herein.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a swivel attachment and branchline restraint device which advantageously provides two substantiallyindependent rotational degrees of freedom (or two substantiallyindependently controllable rotational degrees of freedom), to desirablyfacilitate connection and enhance device versatility—the two degrees offreedom, in some embodiments, are desirably angularly offset ordisplaced relative to one another by a predetermined angle. The degreesof freedom can efficaciously comprise, for example, but not limited to,pitch, yaw and roll motions.

In certain embodiments, the device is advantageously utilized as anattachment for a hanger to connect to a pitched or angled roof orsurface. In certain embodiments, the device desirably is used as aseismic rod attachment to a structure. In certain embodiments, thedevice advantageously is used as an upper attachment for an end of abranch line restraint.

Certain embodiments of the swivel attachment and branch line restraintdevice provide swivel, rotation or pivot capabilities of up to about90°, including all values and sub-ranges therebetween. The maximumswivel angle of substantially independent two degrees of freedom may beabout the same or they can be different with efficacy, as needed ordesired. In modified embodiments, swivel, rotation or pivot capabilitiesof greater than about 90° may be efficaciously provided, as needed ordesired.

In certain embodiments, the swivel attachment is configured to comprisea male-female connection device. In certain embodiments, the swivelattachment is configured to comprise a male-male connection device. Incertain embodiments, the swivel attachment is configured to comprise afemale-female connection device.

In certain embodiments, the swivel attachment is configured to mate withand/or to be compatible with a ⅜ inch rod structure. In modifiedembodiments, the swivel attachment may be efficaciously configured tomate with and/or be compatible with different sizes of rods, pins,connectors or other attachment devices and the like, among others, asneeded or desired.

In certain embodiments, the swivel attachment can be configured to matewith and/or to be compatible with supporting an up to about 4 inchesnominal diameter pipe, including all lower values and sub-rangestherein. In modified embodiments, the swivel attachment may beefficaciously configured to support pipes of greater size, as needed ordesired.

The swivel attachment device in accordance with embodiments of theinvention is desirably easy to use and install. Moreover,advantageously, it can be relatively inexpensive to manufacture, forexample, but not limited to, by using suitable automated methods

FIGS. 1-3 show different views of some embodiments of a double swivelattachment or connector (and branch line restraint) device 10. Asdiscussed further herein, the swivel attachment 10 comprises amale-female connection configuration and/or arrangement in accordancewith certain embodiments. This swivel attachment device 10 may bemodified to provide a male-male or female-female connectionconfiguration and/or arrangement with efficacy, as needed or desired.Certain embodiments of male-male and female-female swivel attachmentconfigurations are also discussed in further detail herein.

The swivel attachment 10, in accordance with certain embodiments, and asdiscussed in further detail herein, comprises a male member, element,portion or section and a female member, element, portion or section. Theswivel attachment male member can comprise a threaded rod, pin,connector, other suitable attachment device or the like with malemating/engaging/articulating features, among others, which male membermatingly engages a female member, for example, of an installationcomponent. The swivel attachment female member can comprise a threadedhole, cavity, opening, clamping member, other suitable attachment deviceor the like with female mating/engaging/articulating features, amongothers which matingly engages a male member, for example, of aninstallation component.

In some embodiments, the swivel attachment 10 generally comprises afemale barrel member, element, portion or section 12, a saddle member,element, portion or section 14 that houses or receives the barrel 12, amale stud member, element, portion or section 16, and a rivet member,structure, element, portion or section 18 that couples the variousdevice components to form an assembly.

Referring in particular to FIG. 3, an X-Y-Z Cartesian coordinate axis orsystem is shown for reference purposes only. The female barrel 12 isrotatable, pivotable or swivelable about an axis 22 that is generallycoincident or parallel with the X-axis as generally depicted by arrows24 to provide a first rotational degree of freedom which generally liesin a Y-Z plane(s).

The male stud 16 is rotatable, pivotable or swivelable about an axis 26that is generally coincident or parallel with the Y-axis as generallydepicted by arrows 28 to provide a second rotational degree of freedomwhich generally lies in an X-Z plane(s). These two degrees of freedomare substantially independent of one another and can be controlledsubstantially independently to provide enhanced versatility inconnecting the swivel attachment 10 to, for example, installations withvarying angular configurations.

The two degrees of freedom and/or the planes in which the female barrel12 and the male stud 16 rotate, pivot or swivel are, in someembodiments, substantially perpendicular (that is, at 90°) to oneanother. In modified embodiments, the two degrees of freedom and/or therespective corresponding planes they represent may efficaciously beoriented relative to one another at larger or smaller angles, forexample, at (90°±θ ), where θ is in the range from about greater than 0°to about less than 90°, including all values and subs-rangestherebetween, as needed or desired.

In certain embodiments, the two rotation axes 22 and 26 aresubstantially perpendicular (that is, at 90° to one another and arespatially offset (in a Z-direction) relative to one another. In otherembodiments, the two rotation axes may spatially intersect orsubstantially overlap, as needed or desired. In modified embodiments,the two rotation axes may efficaciously be oriented relative to oneanother at larger or smaller angles, for example, at (90°±α), where α isin the range from about greater than 0° to about less than 90°,including all values and subs-ranges therebetween, as needed or desired.

The following Table illustrates approximate dimensions in inches andweight in pounds of certain exemplary embodiments, but withoutlimitation (total weight of the swivel attachment 10 based on thefollowing is about 0.133 pounds):

Component Thickness Width Length Weight Barrel 12 — 0.624 0.875 0.056Saddle 14 0.062 0.875 2.466 0.027 Swivel Stud 16 0.625 0.375 1.189 0.042Tubular Rivet 18 — 0.280 0.780 0.008

FIGS. 4-8 show various views of certain embodiments of the rotatable,pivotable or swivelable female barrel 12. One or more of these figuresmay show hidden lines in phantom.

In some embodiments, the female barrel 12 generally comprises agenerally cylindrical configuration with two opposed and exposedgenerally flat ends 32, 34, a generally central semi-circular or curvedgroove, channel or track 36, and a generally central female threadedhole, cavity or opening 38 located at around a bottom or lower portionof the barrel 12 and substantially aligned with the groove 36. Thefemale barrel 12 is advantageously substantially independentlyrotatable, pivotable or swivelable, about the rotation axis 22, asgenerally denoted by arrows 24, relative to the male stud 16.

The groove 36, in certain embodiments, is specially configured to engagea portion of the male stud 16 by being dimensioned with a particularradius of curvature. In some embodiments, the female threaded hole 38has an open end and a closed end of a particular size to matingly engagean installation component, such as a threaded rod or the like.

The barrel 12 can be efficaciously sized and dimensioned in variousmanners, as needed or desired. Referring in particular to FIG. 5, insome embodiments, the dimensions or lengths L₅₁ and L₅₂ are about 0.319inches, the dimension or length L₅₃ is about 0.235 inches, the diameterD₅₁ (and the diameter D₆₁ of FIG. 6) is about 0.624 inches, the diameterD₅₂ is about 0.5 inches, and the radius of curvature R₅₁ is about 0.188inches. In some embodiments, the threaded hole 38 is formed by using astandard ⅜-16 N.C. size tap drill format and is about 0.437 inches deep.

Referring in particular to FIG. 7, in some embodiments, the dimension orlength is L₇₁ is about 0.875 inches, the dimension or length is L₇₂ istypically about 0.294 inches, the diameter D₇₁ is about 0.624 inches,and the radius of curvature R₇₁ is about 0.188 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 8, in some embodiments, the dimension orwidth W₈₁ is about 0.538 inches, the diameter D₈₁ is about 0.624 inches,and the diameter D₈₂ is about 0.375 inches.

FIGS. 9-14 show various views of certain embodiments of the saddle 14which provides a seat or housing for the female barrel 12. One or moreof these figures may show hidden lines in phantom. The barrel 12 (an/orother suitable device components) can also be provided with markingssuch as, but not limited to, product identification, country ofmanufacture, certification standard, and brand name, logo or trademark.

In some embodiments, the saddle 14 generally comprises a generallyU-shaped configuration or main body portion 42, a generally U-shaped andsubstantially central U-shaped slot or opening 44, and a pair of alignedthough holes or openings 46, 48. The slot 44 is, in certain embodiments,advantageously configured and dimensioned to expose the female barrelthreaded hole 38 such that it can mate with a male installationcomponent, while desirably providing a predetermined angular degree offreedom.

The pair of aligned holes 46, 48, in some embodiments, are configuredand dimensioned to receive and allow passage of the rivet structure 18.As discussed in more detail herein, in accordance with certainembodiments, the aligned holes 46, 48 are also aligned with a passage ofthe male stud 16 to receive the rivet structure 18 and couple thevarious device components and form an assembly.

Referring in particular to FIGS. 13 and 14, planar and/or flat views ofa saddle 14 p are shown in accordance with some embodiments prior to thefabrication of the generally U-shaped saddle 14. The planar saddle 14 p,of certain embodiments, comprises a generally flat and generally oval orellipsoidal shaped structure 42 p including a generally oval orellipsoidal slot, opening or through hole 44 p, and a pair of spacedthrough holes or openings 46 p, 48 p. The planar saddle 14 p, in someembodiments, is bent generally about a substantially central axis orline 49 to form the generally U-shaped saddle 14 comprising thegenerally U-shaped structure 42 and slot 44, with the rivet receivingholes 46, 48 being substantially aligned with one another.

The planar saddle 14 p, in some embodiments, comprises a pair of wings,extensions or body portions which are substantially parallel or offsetby about 180°. The bending operation(s) about the substantially centralaxis or line 49 then aligns these wing portions to form the generallyU-shaped saddle 14 with substantially aligned rivet receiving holes 46,48.

The saddle 14 can be efficaciously sized and dimensioned in variousmanners, as needed or desired. Referring in particular to FIG. 10, insome embodiments, the dimension or length L₁₀₁ is about 1.064 inches,the dimension or length L₁₀₂ is about 0.814 inches, the dimension orwidth W₁₀₁ is about 0.875 inches, the dimension or width W₁₀₂ is about0.220 inches, the dimension or width W₁₀₃ is about 0.434 inches, thedimension or width W₁₀₄ (and its symmetrical counterpart or minor image)is about 0.438 inches, the diameter D₁₀₁ is about 0.196 inches, theradius of curvature R₁₀₁ is about 0.437 inches, and the radius ofcurvature R₁₀₂ is about 0.219 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, the dimensionor thickness T₁₁₁ is at least about 0.062 inches, and the radius ofcurvature R₁₁₁ is about 0.315 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 13, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₁₃₁ is about 2.466 inches, the dimension or length L₁₃₂ istypically about 0.72 inches, the dimension or length L₁₃₃ is typicallyabout 0.25 inches, the dimension or length L₁₃₄ is about 1.233 inches,the dimension or width W₁₃₁ is about 0.875 inches, the dimensions orwidths W₁₃₂ and W₁₃₃ are about 0.438 inches, the diameter D₁₃₁ istypically about 0.196 inches, and the radius of curvature R₁₃₁ istypically about 0.438 inches. With reference to FIG. 14, in someembodiments, the dimension or thickness T₁₄₁ is about 0.062 inches.

FIGS. 15-21 show various views of certain embodiments of the rotatable,pivotable or swivelable male swivel stud 16. One or more of thesefigures also show hidden lines in phantom.

In some embodiments, the male tee stud 16 generally comprises agenerally T-shaped (or inverted T-shaped) configuration with a generallyU-shaped base member, element, portion or section 52 from which a malethreaded rod, pin or connector 54 extends. The male stud 16 isadvantageously substantially independently rotatable, pivotable orswivelable, about the rotation axis 26, as generally denoted by arrows28, relative to the female barrel 12.

The male stud base 52, in certain embodiments, comprises a generallyU-shaped configuration with a through hole or passage 58 substantiallyaligned with the pair of hole 46, 48 of the saddle 14. The rivetstructure 18 extends through the holes 46, 58 and 48 to couple, connector attach the rotatable male stud 16 and the saddle 14.

In some embodiments, the male stud base 52 comprises a generally curvedor semi-circular distal end 56 that has a radius of curvature thatgenerally conforms to (or is about the same as) the radius of curvatureof the female barrel groove 36, such that at least a portion of the malebase distal end 56 is swivelably received, positioned or locatedgenerally within a portion of the female barrel groove 36. This featurein conjunction with the use of the coupling rivet structure 18advantageously does not permit the female barrel to slide out of orbecome disassembled from the swivel attachment unit 10. Respectivecurved portions or surfaces of the male base distal end 56 and thefemale barrel groove 36 can contact or abut against one another.

The male proximal portion 54, in some embodiments, comprises a threadedrod of a particular size to matingly engage an installation component,such as a female portion or threaded hole, opening or cavity, or thelike. In modified embodiments, the male proximal portion 54 canefficaciously comprise other suitable male structures or members, suchas, but not limited to connector pins, screws, bolts, other attachmentdevices with male features, or the like, as needed or desired.

The stud 16 can be efficaciously sized and dimensioned in variousmanners, as needed or desired. In some embodiments, the male threadedportion 54 is formed by using a standard ⅜-16 N.C. (Class 2B) size tapdrill format.

Referring in particular to FIG. 16, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₁₆₁ is about 1.187 inches, the dimension or length L₁₆₂ isabout 0.750 inches, the dimension or length L₁₆₃ is about 0.437 inches,the dimension or width W₁₆₁ is about 0.625 inches, and the diameter D₁₆₁is about 0.374 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 17, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₁₇₁ is about 0.187 inches, the diameter D₁₇₁ is about 0.196inches, and the radius of curvature R₁₈₇ is about 0.187 inches. Withreference to FIG. 18, in some embodiments, the diameter D₁₈₁ is about0.374 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 19, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₁₉₁ is about 1.189 inches, the dimension or length L₁₉₂ isabout 0.750 inches, and the dimension or length L₁₉₃ is about 0.439inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 20, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₂₀₁ is about 0.252 inches, the diameter D₂₀₁ is about 0.196inches, and the radius of curvature R₂₀₁ is about 0.188 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 21, in some embodiments, the dimensionor width W₂₁₁ is about 0.625 inches, and the dimension or thickness T₂₁₁is about 0.375 inches.

FIGS. 22 and 23 show various views of certain embodiments of the rivetmember, structure, element, portion or section 18. The rivet structure18, in some embodiments, generally defines the rotation axis 26 aboutwhich the male swivel stud 16 rotates, pivots or swivels. In certainembodiments, the rivet structure 18 generally comprises a generallycylindrical central shank, stem, tube or main body portion 62 whichspaces a pair of rivet heads or caps 66, 68 positioned at its opposedends.

The central shank 62, in certain embodiments, extends through thealigned saddle holes 46, 48 and the male stud passage 58 to mechanicallyconnect, couple or attach the saddle 14 and the male swivel stud 16,such that the interaction between the male stud 16 and the female barrel12 also mechanically connects, couples or attaches the female barrel 12to the other device components, and thereby form an assembly comprisesthe swivel attachment 10.

In certain embodiments, the rivet structure 18 comprises a tubular rivetwith the central portion or shank 62 being at least partially hollow. Inmodified embodiments, the rivet shank 62 can efficaciously besubstantially solid or non-hollow, as needed or desired.

The rivet 18 can be efficaciously sized and dimensioned in variousmanners, as needed or desired. Referring in particular to FIG. 22, insome embodiments, the dimension or length L₂₂₁ is about 0.965 inches,the dimension or length L₂₂₂ is typically about 0.093 inches, and thediameter D₂₂₁ is about 0.187 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 23, in some embodiments, the diameterD₂₃₁ is about 0.28 inches, and the diameter D₂₃₂ is about 0.141 inches.

FIGS. 24-26 show various views of certain embodiments of a partiallyassembled or fabricated rivet member, structure, element, portion orsection 18 p comprising a rivet head 66 p with a modified design orconfiguration. One or more of these figures shows some hidden lines.

The partially assembled rivet structure 18 p comprises a hole, openingor cavity 69 at an opposed end relative to the rivet head 66 p tofacilitate attachment of a second rivet head (not shown) once the rivetshank or tube 62 has been positioned to extend through the alignedsaddle holes 46, 48 and the male stud passage 58, thereby substantiallycompleting assembly, manufacture or fabrication of the swivel attachmentdevice. A rivet gun or the like, among others, can be efficaciously usedto secure the second rivet head, as needed or desired.

The use of a rivet type design, structure or configuration such as 18(or 18 p), in certain embodiments, desirably provides a substantiallypermanent or quasi-permanent coupling or connection between componentsof the swivel attachment assembly which can then not be readily oraccidentally disassembled. Advantageously, this also substantiallyprevents the device components from becoming uncoupled due to usage inan installation and/or over a period of time. In modified embodiments, atemporary coupling or connection may be provided, for example, by usinga nut-bolt type of design, with efficacy, as needed or desired.

Any of the embodiments of the swivel attachment device disclosed, taughtor suggested herein, such as the swivel attachment 10, can be providedto be adaptable for use with different sizes of installation components.In certain embodiments, the swivel attachment is configured to mate withand/or be compatible with a standard 3/8 inch threaded rod structure orthreaded hole configuration.

In some modified embodiments, it is contemplated that a single swivelattachment device may be utilized as a male-male, male-female orfemale-female device. For example, this may be accomplished by providinga pair of independently rotatable, and at least partially hollow, rodswith an outer threaded portion of a certain size and an inner threadedportion of a certain threaded size. Thus, both the rods of the swivelattachment device may either engage a female or a male installationcomponent, as needed or desired.

Any of the embodiments of the swivel attachment device (such as theswivel attachment 10) disclosed, taught or suggested herein desirablycomprise components fabricated from a suitably strong material. In someembodiments, the components of any of the swivel attachment embodimentscomprise steel such as mild steel or carbon steel. The steel can have aplain finish, or in some embodiments, it can have pre-galvanized orelectro-galvanized finish.

In other embodiments, the components of any of the swivel attachmentembodiments can efficaciously comprise other suitable alloys, metals,ceramics, plastics, thermoplastics, organic materials and the like, andany combinations thereof, as needed or desired. Any suitable surfacefinish or coating may be provided with efficacy, as needed or desired.

Any of the components of embodiments of the swivel attachment device(such as the swivel attachment 10) disclosed, taught or suggested hereincan be fabricated or manufactured by utilizing a wide variety oftechniques or methods. These include, without limitation, machining,stamping, bending and/or punching, casting, forging, molding, lasing,laser processing, welding, gluing, adhesively fixing, and anycombinations thereof, among others, as required or desired.

Any of the components of embodiments of the swivel attachment device(such as the swivel attachment 10) disclosed, taught or suggested hereincan be fabricated as integral units or integrally formed. In modifiedembodiments, any of the device components can efficaciously bemanufactured by fabricating separate portions and then joining thesetogether to form the device component.

In some embodiments, the female barrel 12 and the male stud 16 (and anyof their other embodiments disclosed, taught or suggested herein) areformed, fabricated or manufactured by machining, drilling and/orthreading operations.

In some embodiments, the partially formed one-headed rivet member, suchas 18 p, (and any of its other embodiments disclosed, taught orsuggested herein) is formed, fabricated or manufactured by machining anddrilling operations and/or casting and molding operations. The secondrivet head can then be connected, attached or coupled, in someembodiments, by welding, adhesively gluing, or the like, among others,with efficacy, as needed or desired.

In some embodiments, the saddle 14 (and any of its other embodimentsdisclosed, taught or suggested herein) is formed, fabricated ormanufactured by stamping, bending and/or punching operations. Agenerally flat strip of material can be stamped and/or punched into asuitable shape and arrangement (see, for example, the planar saddleshape of FIG. 13) by stamping and/or punching operations. The planarsaddle shape can then be bent around a bending axis or line (see, forexample, the line 49 of FIG. 13) to form the saddle 14 and any of itsembodiments.

Advantageously, such a manufacturing process is especially suited forautomated assembly lines, wherein stamping, punching and bendingoperations can be performed at high speeds and pick-and-place roboticarms or systems can efficiently manipulate the component(s) and controlthe manufacturing process. Moreover, the simplicity and speed of thismanufacturing method results in an end product that is economical tomanufacture, and thus is desirably inexpensive.

Some Installation Embodiments

FIGS. 27-29 show various embodiments of installation that utilize theswivel attachment and/or branch restraint device 10. As the skilledartisan will appreciate, any of the embodiments of the swivel attachmentdevice disclosed, taught or suggested herein can be efficaciously used,or adapted to be used, in substantially the same or similarinstallations, among others, as needed or desired.

FIGS. 30-35 show embodiments of various devices which can be used inconjunction with the swivel attachment and/or branch restraint device 10to form the installations of FIG. 27-29. Again, as the skilled artisanwill appreciate, any of the embodiments of the swivel attachment devicedisclosed, taught or suggested herein can be efficaciously used, oradapted to be used, in substantially the same or similar manner with thedevices of FIGS. 30-35, among others, as needed or desired.

The installation embodiments of FIGS. 27-29 illustrate the versatilityof embodiments of a swivel attachment and branch line restraint devicewhich, in certain embodiments, advantageously provides two substantiallyindependent rotational (or angular) degrees of freedom (or twosubstantially independently controllable rotational degrees of freedom),to desirably facilitate connection and utility in a myriad ofinstallation structures—the two degrees of freedom, in some embodiments,are desirably angularly offset or displaced relative to one another by apredetermined angle. In some embodiments, this predetermined angle isabout 90°.

FIG. 27 shows an installation using the swivel attachment 10 as astructural attachment component of an end of branch restraint inaccordance with certain embodiments. The swivel attachment 10 isadvantageously used as an upper attachment for end of branch linerestraint, such as a pipe, conduit 79 or other load which may be usedfor the transport of utility fluids, for example, but not limited to afire sprinkler system, among others. In some embodiments, thisarrangement may be used as a retrofit connection to provide, forexample, additional support or bracing against undesirable sway and/orseismic activities or disturbances.

Referring in particular to the embodiments of FIG. 27, the swivelattachment 10 mates with a female member or threaded hole of a ceilingplate or bracket 72 (see FIG. 33) which is connected to a supportstructure such as, but not limited to, a wooden ceiling or beam 70, andalso mates with a male member or threaded rod 74 (see FIG. 34) which inturn is mechanically connected, coupled or connected with a surgerestrainer 76 (see FIG. 31) that is mechanically engaged or coupled witha band hanger 78 (see FIG. 35) and/or the load, pipe or conduit 79.Additional installation components such as a threaded rod 74′, surgerestrainer 76′, and band hanger 78′, among others, are also shown andcan be utilized in the installation.

Some embodiments of the ceiling plate 72 and the surge restrainer 76 aredisclosed in respective U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,702,077 and 5,344,108, theentirety of each one of which is hereby incorporated by referenceherein, and comprises a part of the present application/specification.

FIG. 28 shows an installation using the swivel attachment 10 as an upperattachment with a short hanger rod to omit seismic bracing in accordancewith certain embodiments. The swivel attachment 10 is advantageouslyused as a seismic rod attachment to a structure to support a pipe,conduit 79 or other load which may be used for the transport of utilityfluids, for example, but not limited to a fire sprinkler system, amongothers.

Referring in particular to the embodiments of FIG. 28, the swivelattachment 10 mates with a female member or threaded hole of a supportstructure such as, but not limited to, a concrete ceiling or beam 80,and also mates with a male member or shortened threaded rod 74 (see FIG.34) which in turn is mechanically engaged, connected, coupled orconnected with a with a clevis hanger 82 (see FIG. 30) that supports theload, pipe or conduit 79.

FIG. 29 shows an installation using the swivel attachment 10 in apitched roof application in accordance with certain embodiments. Theswivel attachment 10 is advantageously used as an attachment for ahanger to connect to a pitched or angled roof or surface to support apipe, conduit 79 or other load which may be used for the transport ofutility fluids, for example, but not limited to a fire sprinkler system,among others. (A retaining strap can be utilized in this installationwith efficacy, as needed or desired.)

Referring in particular to the embodiments of FIG. 29, the swivelattachment 10 mates with a female member or threaded hole of areversible C-type beam clamp or hanger clamp body 92 (see FIG. 32), andalso mates with a male member or threaded rod 74 (see FIG. 34) which inturn is mechanically engaged, connected, coupled or connected with theload, pipe or conduit 79. The clamp 92, in certain embodiments, ismechanically engaged, connected, coupled or connected with an I-beam 94or the like which in turn is mechanically engaged, connected, coupled orconnected with a support structure or surface such as, but not limitedto, a pitched or angled roof, beam, or surface 90 or the like

Some embodiments of the beam clamp 92 are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.4,570,885, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by referenceherein, and comprises a part of the present application/specification.

As one skilled in the art will readily recognize that by advantageouslyproviding two substantially independent degrees of freedom (or twosubstantially independently controllable degrees of freedom), in certainembodiments of the swivel attachment and/or branch line restraintdevice, superior versatility and adaptability is achieved to desirablyfacilitate connection and utility in numerous sway and/or seismicbracing installation applications. These advantages can, in someembodiments, be further enhanced by controlling the angular offsetbetween the two rotational degrees of freedom, for example, bycontrolling the angle between the planes in which the degrees of freedomprovide rotational, swivel, or pivot motion.

The clevis hanger 82 (see, for example, FIG. 30) can advantageously bedimensioned in various sizes to allow use with various sizes of pipes79, such as, but not limited to pipe sizes in the range from about ½inch to about 36 inches. The pipes may be non-insulated or insulated.

The surge restrainer 76 (see, for example, FIG. 31) desirably allows onesize to be used in conjunction with various sizes of pipes 79, such as,but not limited to pipe sizes in the range from about ¾ inch to about 2inches. Advantageously, the surge restrainer facilitates in restrictingundesirable movement (e.g., upwards movement) of piping as can occurduring sprinkler head activation or earthquake type activity.

The clamp 92 (see, for example, FIG. 32) can advantageously accommodatebeam flanges of different thicknesses. For example, by providing clamps92 with different throat sizes, such as, but not limited to clamp throatsizes in the range from about ¾ inch to about 1¼ inches.

The ceiling plate 72 (see, for example, FIG. 33) can desirably beattached to various structures 70, such as, but not limited to, woodbeams, ceilings, metal decks, walls, and the like. The plate 72 can alsobe welded to certain structures, such as, steel beams and the like, asneeded or desired.

The threaded 74 (see, for example, FIG. 34) can advantageously beprovided in various sizes. For example, but not limited to, rod sizes inthe range from about ¼ inch to about 1½ inches, as needed or desired.

The band hanger 78 (see, for example, FIG. 35) can advantageously bedimensioned in various sizes to allow use with various sizes of pipes79, such as, but not limited to pipe sizes in the range from about ½inch to about 8 inches. Typical uses include, but are not limited to,fire sprinkler and other general piping applications and installations.

Some Other Embodiments of a Male-Female Swivel Attachment Device

FIGS. 36-38 show various views of a male-female swivel attachment and/orbranch line restraint device 10 mf in accordance with certainembodiments of the invention. The swivel attachment 10 mf, in someembodiments, generally comprises a female nut member, element, portionor section 12 f, a male stud member, element, portion or section 16 m,and a common rivet structure, member, element, portion or section 18that mechanically, couples, connects or attached the female nut 12 f andthe male stud 16 m. Any of the embodiments of the rivet structure orconnector pin can efficaciously be used in conjunction with the swivelattachment 10 mf, as needed or desired.

In some embodiments, both the female nut 12 f and the male stud 16 m arerotatable, swivelable or pivotable about a common rotation axis 25 thatis generally coincident or parallel with the reference Y-axis asgenerally denoted by arrows 27. The rotation axis 25, in certainembodiments, is generally defined by the rivet structure 18.

The rotation of the female nut 12 f, in some embodiments, provides afirst substantially independent degree of freedom which generally liesin the reference X-Z plane(s). The rotation of the male stud 16 m, insome embodiments, provides a second substantially independent degree offreedom which also generally lies in the reference X-Z plane(s). Thus,at least in part due to the common rotation axis 25, both the male andfemale member degrees of freedom both lie in substantially the sameplane, though both are desirably independently controllable.

FIGS. 39-44 show various views of certain embodiments of the rotatable,pivotable or swivelable female nut 12 f. One or more of these figuresmay show hidden lines in phantom.

In some embodiments, the female nut 12 f generally comprises a generallyrectangular configuration with a pair of substantially aligned andspaced distal through holes or openings 33 f, 35 f which receive therivet structure 18, and a generally central female threaded hole, cavityor opening 38 f, extending from a proximal end of the female nut 12 f,which is sized and configured to matingly engage an installationcomponent, such as a threaded rod or the like. The female nut 12 f isadvantageously substantially independently rotatable, pivotable orswivelable, about the rotation axis 25, as generally denoted by arrows27, relative to the male stud 16 m.

The female nut 12 f can be efficaciously sized and dimensioned invarious manners, as needed or desired. In some embodiments, the threadedhole 38 f is formed by using a standard ⅜-16 UNC 2B size tap drillformat.

Referring in particular to FIG. 41, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₄₁₁ is about 0.187 inches, the dimension or width W₄₁₁ isabout 0.250 inches, and the diameter D₄₁₁ is about 0.201 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 42, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₄₂₁ is about 0.437 inches, and the dimension or width W₄₂₁ isabout 0.376 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 43, in some embodiments, the dimensionor width W₄₃₁ is about 0.5 inches, the dimension or width W₄₃₂ is about0.376 inches, the dimensions or widths W₄₃₃ and W₄₃₄ are about 0.062inches, and the dimension or thickness T₄₃₁ is about 0.5 inches.

FIGS. 45-47 show various views of certain embodiments of the rotatable,pivotable or swivelable male swivel stud 16 m. In some embodiments, themale stud 16 m generally comprises a generally rectangular base member,element, portion or section 52 m from which a male threaded rod, pin orconnector 54 m extends. The male stud 16 m is advantageouslysubstantially independently rotatable, pivotable or swivelable, aboutthe rotation axis 25, as generally denoted by arrows 27, relative to thefemale nut 12 f.

The male stud distal base 52 m, in certain embodiments, comprises athrough hole or passage 58 m substantially aligned with and positionedbetween the pair of holes 33 f, 35 f of the female nut 16 m. The rivetstructure 18 extends through the holes 33 f, 58 m and 35 f to couple,connect or attach the rotatable male stud 16 m and the rotatable femalenut 12 f.

The male proximal portion 54 m, in some embodiments, comprises athreaded rod of a particular size to matingly engage an installationcomponent, such as a female portion or threaded hole, opening or cavity,or the like. In modified embodiments, the male proximal portion 54 m canefficaciously comprise other suitable male structures or members, suchas, but not limited to connector pins, screws, bolts, other attachmentdevices with male features, or the like, as needed or desired.

The male stud 16 m can be efficaciously sized and dimensioned in variousmanners, as needed or desired. In some embodiments, the male threadedportion 54 m is formed by using a standard ⅜-16 UNC 2B size tap drillformat.

Referring in particular to FIG. 46, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₄₆₁ is about 0.68 inches, the dimension or length L₄₆₂ isabout 0.5 inches, and the diameter D₄₆₁ is about 0.201 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 46, in some embodiments, the dimensionor width W₄₇₁, the dimension or thickness T₄₇₁, and the diameter D₄₇₁are about 0.374 inches.

Some Embodiments of a Common Saddle/Center Swivel Attachment Device

The swivel attachment device in accordance with certain embodimentsdesirably comprises a common saddle or center member, element, portionor section which is rotatingly coupled to both mating members which areindependently rotatable about respective rotation axes and which providetwo substantially independent rotational degrees of freedom inrespective planes which are angularly offset relative to one another bya predetermined angle. Advantageously, and as discussed further herein,the use of a common saddle or center member allows it to beefficaciously used in conjunction with any one of male-female, male-maleor female-female device configurations, as needed or desired, to enhanceproduction efficiency and versatility.

FIGS. 48-50 show different views of some embodiments of a common-centermale-female swivel attachment or connector (and branch line restraint)device 10 mf′. The swivel attachment 10 mf′, in accordance with certainembodiments, and as discussed in further detail herein, comprises a malemember, element, portion or section and a female member, element,portion or section. The swivel attachment male member can comprise athreaded rod, pin, connector, other suitable attachment device or thelike, among others which matingly engages a female member, for example,of an installation component. The swivel attachment female member cancomprise a threaded hole, cavity, opening, other suitable attachmentdevice or the like, among others which matingly engages a male member,for example, of an installation component.

In some embodiments, the swivel attachment 10 mf′ generally comprises afemale nut, member, element, portion or section 12 f′, a saddle orcenter member, element, portion or section 14′, a male stud, member,element, portion or section 16 m′, and a pair of rivet members,structures, elements, portions or sections 18 f′, 18 m′ thatrespectively mechanically couple, connect or attach female member 12 f′and the male member 16 m′ to the center saddle member 14′ to form anassembly. Any of the embodiments of the rivet structure or connector pincan efficaciously be used in conjunction with the swivel attachment 10mf′, as needed or desired.

The female nut 12 f′ is rotatable, pivotable or swivelable about an axis22′ that is generally coincident or parallel with the Y-axis asgenerally depicted by arrows 24′ to provide a first rotational degree offreedom which generally lies in the reference X-Z plane(s). The rotationaxis 22′, in certain embodiments, is generally defined by the rivetstructure 18 f′.

The male stud 16 m′ is rotatable, pivotable or swivelable about an axis26′ that is generally coincident or parallel with the X-axis asgenerally depicted by arrows 28′ to provide a second rotational degreeof freedom which generally lies in the reference Y-Z plane(s). Therotation axis 26′, in certain embodiments, is generally defined by therivet structure 18 m′.

These two rotational degrees of freedom, as provided by the male andfemale members 12 f′ and 16 m′, are substantially independent of oneanother and can be controlled substantially independently to provideenhanced versatility in connecting the swivel attachment 10 mf′ to, forexample, installations with varying angular configurations.

The two degrees of freedom and/or the planes in which the female nut 12f′ and the male stud 16 m′ rotate, pivot or swivel are, in someembodiments, substantially perpendicular (that is, at 90° to oneanother. In modified embodiments, the two degrees of freedom and/or therespective corresponding planes they represent may efficaciously beoriented relative to one another at larger or smaller angles, forexample, at (90°±θ), where θ is in the range from about greater than 0°to about less than 90°, including all values and subs-rangestherebetween, as needed or desired.

In certain embodiments, the two rotation axes 22′ and 26′ aresubstantially perpendicular (that is, at 90° to one another and arespatially offset (in a Z-direction) relative to one another. In otherembodiments, the two rotation axes may spatially intersect orsubstantially overlap, as needed or desired. In modified embodiments,the two rotation axes may efficaciously be oriented relative to oneanother at larger or smaller angles, for example, at (90°±α), where α isin the range from about greater than 0° to about less than 90°,including all values and subs-ranges therebetween, as needed or desired.

FIGS. 51-53 show different views of some embodiments of a common-centermale-male swivel attachment or connector (and branch line restraint)device 10 mm′ The swivel attachment 10 mm′, in accordance with certainembodiments, and as discussed in further detail herein, comprises a pairof male members, elements, portions or sections. The swivel attachmentmale members can comprise a threaded rod, pin, connector, other suitableattachment device or the like, among others which matingly engages afemale member, for example, of an installation component.

In some embodiments, the swivel attachment 10 mm′ generally comprises afirst male stud, member, element, portion or section 16 m 1′, a saddleor center member, element, portion or section 14′, a second male stud,member, element, portion or section 16 m 2′, and a pair of rivetmembers, structures, elements, portions or sections 18 m 1′, 18 m 2′that respectively mechanically couple, connect or attach first malemember 16 m 1′ and the second male member 16 m 2′ to the center saddlemember 14′ to form an assembly. Any of the embodiments of the rivetstructure or connector pin can efficaciously be used in conjunction withthe swivel attachment 10 mm′, as needed or desired.

The first male stud 16 m 1′ is rotatable, pivotable or swivelable aboutan axis 26 m 1′ that is generally coincident or parallel with the X-axisas generally depicted by arrows 28 m 1′ to provide a first rotationaldegree of freedom which generally lies in the reference Y-Z plane(s).The rotation axis 26 m 1′, in certain embodiments, is generally definedby the rivet structure 18 m 1′.

The second male stud 16 m 2′ is rotatable, pivotable or swivelable aboutan axis 26 m 2′ that is generally coincident or parallel with the Y-axisas generally depicted by arrows 28 m 2″ to provide a second rotationaldegree of freedom which generally lies in the reference X-Z plane(s).The rotation axis 26 m 2′, in certain embodiments, is generally definedby the rivet structure 18 m 2′.

These two rotational degrees of freedom, as provided by the male members16 m 1′ and 16 m 2′, are substantially independent of one another andcan be controlled substantially independently to provide enhancedversatility in connecting the swivel attachment 10 mm′ to, for example,installations with varying angular configurations.

The two degrees of freedom and/or the planes in which the first malestud 16 m 1′ and the second male stud 16 m 2′ rotate, pivot or swivelare, in some embodiments, substantially perpendicular (that is, at 90°to one another. In modified embodiments, the two degrees of freedomand/or the respective corresponding planes they represent mayefficaciously be oriented relative to one another at larger or smallerangles, for example, at (90°±θ), where θ is in the range from aboutgreater than 0° to about less than 90°, including all values andsubs-ranges therebetween, as needed or desired.

In certain embodiments, the two rotation axes 26 m 1′ and 26 m 2′ aresubstantially perpendicular (that is, at)90° to one another and arespatially offset (in a Z-direction) relative to one another. In otherembodiments, the two rotation axes may spatially intersect orsubstantially overlap, as needed or desired. In modified embodiments,the two rotation axes may efficaciously be oriented relative to oneanother at larger or smaller angles, for example, at (90°±α), where α isin the range from about greater than 0° to about less than 90°,including all values and subs-ranges therebetween, as needed or desired.

FIGS. 54-56 show different views of some embodiments of a common-centerfemale-female swivel attachment or connector (and branch line restraint)device 10 ff′. The swivel attachment 10 ff′, in accordance with certainembodiments, and as discussed in further detail herein, comprises a pairof female members, elements, portions or sections. The swivel attachmentfemale members can comprise a threaded hole, cavity, opening, othersuitable attachment device or the like, among others which matinglyengages a male member, for example, of an installation component.

In some embodiments, the swivel attachment 10 ff′ generally comprises afirst female nut, member, element, portion or section 12 f 1′, a saddleor center member, element, portion or section 14′, a second female nut,member, element, portion or section 12 f 2′, and a pair of rivetmembers, structures, elements, portions or sections 18 f 1′, 18 f 2′that respectively mechanically couple, connect or attach first femalemember 12 f 1′ and the second female member 12 f 2′ to the center saddlemember 14′ to form an assembly. Any of the embodiments of the rivetstructure or connector pin can efficaciously be used in conjunction withthe swivel attachment 10 ff′, as needed or desired.

The first female nut 12 f 1′ is rotatable, pivotable or swivelable aboutan axis 22 f 1′ that is generally coincident or parallel with the X-axisas generally depicted by arrows 24 f 1′ to provide a first rotationaldegree of freedom which generally lies in the reference Y-Z plane(s).The rotation axis 22 f 1′, in certain embodiments, is generally definedby the rivet structure 18 f 1′.

The second female nut 12 f 2′ is rotatable, pivotable or swivelableabout an axis 22 f 2′ that is generally coincident or parallel with theY-axis as generally depicted by arrows 24 f 2″ to provide a secondrotational degree of freedom which generally lies in the reference X-Zplane(s). The rotation axis 24 f 2′, in certain embodiments, isgenerally defined by the rivet structure 18 f 2′.

These two rotational degrees of freedom, as provided by the femalemembers 12 f 1′ and 12 f 2′, are substantially independent of oneanother and can be controlled substantially independently to provideenhanced versatility in connecting the swivel attachment 10 ff′ to, forexample, installations with varying angular configurations.

The two degrees of freedom and/or the planes in which the first femalenut 12 f 1′ and the second female nut 12 f 2′ rotate, pivot or swivelare, in some embodiments, substantially perpendicular (that is, at 90°to one another. In modified embodiments, the two degrees of freedomand/or the respective corresponding planes they represent mayefficaciously be oriented relative to one another at larger or smallerangles, for example, at (90°±θ), where θ is in the range from aboutgreater than 0° to about less than 90°, including all values andsubs-ranges therebetween, as needed or desired.

In certain embodiments, the two rotation axes 22 f 1′ and 22 f 2′ aresubstantially perpendicular (that is, at 90° to one another and arespatially offset (in a Z-direction) relative to one another. In otherembodiments, the two rotation axes may spatially intersect orsubstantially overlap, as needed or desired. In modified embodiments,the two rotation axes may efficaciously be oriented relative to oneanother at larger or smaller angles, for example, at (90°±α), where α isin the range from about greater than 0° to about less than 90°,including all values and subs-ranges therebetween, as needed or desired.

FIGS. 57-61 show various views of certain embodiments of the swivelattachment saddle or center 14′ which mechanically couples, connects orattaches to one or more of the female nuts 12 f′ (12 f 1′, 12 f 2′)and/or one or more of the male studs 16 m′ (16 m 1′, 16 m 2′) dependingon the particular swivel device embodiments, such as, a male-female orfemale-female device configuration. One or more of these figures alsoshow hidden lines in phantom.

In some embodiments, the saddle or center 14′ generally comprises a pairof mechanically connected generally U-shaped configurations or main bodyportions 42_1′, 42_2′, with a common connection central base member,element, portion or section 45′. The main body portions 42_1′, 42_2′, incertain embodiments, comprise respective substantially aligned throughholes or passages 46_1′, 48_1′ and 46_2′, 48_2′ dimensioned to receiveand allow passage of appropriate rivet structures 18 f′ (18 f 1′, 18 f2′) and/or 18 m′ (18 m 1′, 18 m 2′) again depending on the particularswivel device embodiments, such as, a male-female or female-femaledevice configuration.

As noted further herein, in accordance with certain embodiments, thealigned holes 46_1′, 48_1′ and 46_2′, 48_2′ are also aligned withthrough holes or passages of one or more of the female nuts 12 f′ (12 f1′, 12 f 2′) and/or one or more of the male studs 16 m′ (16 m 1′, 16 m2′) to receive appropriate rivet structures 18 f′ (18 f 1′, (18 m 1′, 18m 2′) depending on the particular swivel device embodiments, such as, amale-female or female-female device configuration.

Referring in particular to FIG. 61, a planar and/or flat view of aswivel attachment saddle or center 14 p′ is shown in accordance withsome embodiments prior to the fabrication of the generally doubleU-shaped saddle or center 14′.

The planar saddle 14 p′, of certain embodiments, comprises a generallyflat and cross-shaped structure including a pair of wings, extensions orbody portions 42_1 p′ and 42_2 p′ mechanically connected by a centralportion 45 p′. The flat portions 42_1 p′, 42_2 p′ comprise respectiveand corresponding through holes or openings 46_1 p′, 48-1 p′ and 46_2p′, 48-2 p′. The planar saddle 14 p′, in some embodiments, is bentgenerally about substantially straight axes or lines 49_16′, 49-18′ and49_26′, 49-28′ such that holes 46_1′, 48_1′ are substantially alignedand holes 46_2′, 48_2′ are substantially aligned to form the generallydouble U-shaped swivel saddle or center 14′.

In some embodiments, the saddle 14′ (and any of its other embodimentsdisclosed, taught or suggested herein) is formed, fabricated ormanufactured by stamping, bending and/or punching operations. Agenerally flat strip of material can be stamped and/or punched into asuitable shape and arrangement (see, for example, the planar saddleshape of FIG. 61) by stamping and/or punching operations. The planarsaddle shape can then be bent around bending axes or lines (see, forexample, the lines 49_16′, 49-18′ and 49_26′, of FIG. 61) to form thesaddle 14′ and any of its embodiments.

The flat portions or wings 42_1 p′, 42_2 p′, in certain embodiments, arerespectively perpendicularly offset or angularly offset by about 90°with respect to corresponding adjacent flat wing portions. The bendingoperations then orient these wing portions to form the saddle 14′ withsubstantially aligned rivet receiving holes.

Advantageously, such a manufacturing process is especially suited forautomated assembly lines, wherein stamping, punching and bendingoperations can be performed at high speeds and pick-and-place roboticarms or systems can efficiently manipulate the component(s) and controlthe manufacturing process. Moreover, the simplicity and speed of thismanufacturing method results in an end product that is economical tomanufacture, and thus is desirably inexpensive.

The saddle 14′ can be efficaciously sized and dimensioned in variousmanners, as needed or desired. Referring in particular to FIG. 58, insome embodiments, the dimension or length L₅₈₁ is about 0.817 inches,the dimension or length L₅₈₂ is about 0.504 inches, the dimension orwidth W₅₈₁ is about 0.66 inches, the dimension or width W₅₈₂ is about0.502 inches, the dimension or width W₅₈₃ is about 0.413 inches, thedimension or thickness T₅₈₁ is about 0.079 inches, the diameter D₅₈₁ isabout 0.201 inches, the radius of curvature R₅₈₁ is about 0.313 inches,and the radius of curvature R₅₈₂ is about 0.187 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 59, in some embodiments, the dimensionor width W₅₉₁ is about 0.207 inches, and the dimension or width W₅₉₂ isabout 0.502 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 60, in some embodiments, the dimensionor width W₆₀₁ is about 0.502 inches, and the dimension or width W₆₀₂ isabout 0.414 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 61, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₆₁₁ is about 2.151 inches, the dimension or length L₆₁₂ isabout 1.526 inches, the dimension or width W₆₁₁ is about 2.151 inches,the dimension or width W₆₁₂ is about 0.413 inches, the dimension orwidth W₆₁₃ is about 1.526 inches, the diameter D₆₁₁ is about 0.201inches (for all four holes), the radius of curvature R₆₁₁ is about 0.187inches, the radius of curvature R₆₁₂ is about 0.313 inches, and theradius of curvature R₆₁₃ is about 0.062 inches (for all four corners).

FIGS. 62-65 show various views of certain embodiments of the rotatable,pivotable or swivelable female nut 12 f′ (12 f 1′, 12 f 2′). One or moreof these figures may show hidden lines in phantom.

In some embodiments, the female nut 12 f′ (12 f 1′, 12 f 2′) generallycomprises a generally cylindrical configuration with a pair ofsubstantially aligned and spaced distal through holes or openings 33 f′(33 f 1′, 33 f 2′), 35 f′ (35 f 1′, 35 f 2′) which receive the rivetstructure 18 f′ (18 f 1′, 18 f 2′), and a generally central femalethreaded hole, cavity or opening 38 f (28 f 1′, 38 f 2′), extending froma proximal end of the female nut 12 f′ (12 f 1′, 12 f 2′), which issized and configured to matingly engage an installation component, suchas a threaded rod or the like. The female nut 12 f′ (12 f 1′, 12 f 2′)is advantageously substantially independently rotatable, pivotable orswivelable, about the rotation axis 22′ (22 f 1′, 22 f 2′), as generallydenoted by arrows 24′ (24 f 1′, 24 f 2′).

The through holes or openings 33 f′ (33 f 1′, 33 f 2′), 35 f′ (35 f 1′,35 f 2′), in certain embodiments, are substantially aligned with andpositioned between the pair of saddle or center member through holes(46_1′, 48_1′) and/or (46_2′, 48_2′). The rivet structure(s) 18 f′ (18 f1′, 18 f 2′) and/or 18 m′ mechanically couple, connect or attach thevarious device components. As the skilled artisan will appreciate, theparticular arrangement depends on whether the device comprises amale-female or female-female device configuration.

The female proximal portion 38 f′ (38 f 1′, 38 f 2′), in someembodiments, comprises a threaded hole, cavity or opening of aparticular size to matingly engage an installation component, such as amale portion or threaded rod, pin or connector, or the like. In modifiedembodiments, the female proximal portion 38 f′ (38 f 1′, 38 f 2′) canefficaciously comprise other female structures or members with suitablefemale features, such as, but not limited to clamping devices orfingers, to matingly engage a male member.

The female nut 12 f′ can be efficaciously sized and dimensioned invarious manners, as needed or desired. In some embodiments, the threadedhole 38 f′ is formed by using a standard ⅜-16 UNC 2B size tap drillformat.

Referring in particular to FIG. 63, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₆₃₁ is about 0.625 inches, and the through diameter D₆₃₁ isabout 0.201 inches (on both sides).

Referring in particular to FIG. 64, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₆₄₁ is about 0.875 inches, the dimension or length L₆₄₂ isabout 0.042 inches, and the angle θ₆₄₁ is about 45°. With reference toFIG. 65, in some embodiments, the diameter D₆₅₁ is about 0.5 inches.

FIGS. 66-69 show various views of certain embodiments of the rotatable,pivotable or swivelable male swivel stud 16 m′ (16 m 1′, 16 m 2′). Insome embodiments, the male stud 16 m′ (16 m 1′, 16 m 2′) generallycomprises a generally cylindrical base member, element, portion orsection 5 2 m′ (52 m 1′, 52 m 2′) from which a male threaded rod, pin orconnector 54 m′ (54 m 1′, 54 m 2′) extends. The male stud 16 m′ (16 m1′, 16 m 2′) is advantageously substantially independently rotatable,pivotable or swivelable, about the rotation axis 26 m (26 m 1′, 26 m2′), as generally denoted by arrows 28′ (28 m 1′, 28 m 2′).

The male stud distal base 52 m′ (52 m 1′, 52 m 2′), in certainembodiments, comprises a through hole or passage 58 m′ (58 m 1′, 58 m2′) substantially aligned with and positioned between the pair of saddleor center member through holes (46_1′, 48_1′) and/or (46_2′, 48_2′), andwhich receives the rivet structure 18 m′ (18 m 1′, 18 m 2′). The rivetstructure(s) 18 m′ (18 m 1′, 18 m 2′) and/or 18 f′ mechanically couple,connect or attach the various device components. As the skilled artisanwill appreciate, the particular arrangement depends on whether thedevice comprises a male-female or male-male device configuration.

The male proximal portion 54 m′ (54 m 1′, 54 m 2′), in some embodiments,comprises a threaded rod of a particular size to matingly engage aninstallation component, such as a female portion or threaded hole,opening or cavity, or the like. In modified embodiments, the maleproximal portion 54 m′ (54 m 1′, 54 m 2′) can efficaciously compriseother suitable male structures or members, such as, but not limited toconnector pins, screws, bolts, other attachment devices with malefeatures, or the like, as needed or desired.

The male stud 16 m′ can be efficaciously sized and dimensioned invarious manners, as needed or desired. In some embodiments, the malethreaded portion 54 m′ is formed by using a standard ⅜-16 UNC 2B sizetap drill format.

Referring in particular to FIG. 67, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₆₇₁ is about 0.044 inches, and the angle θ₆₇₁ is about 45°.

Referring in particular to FIG. 68, in some embodiments, the dimensionor length L₆₈₁ is about 0.719 inches, the dimension or length L₆₈₂ isabout 0.578 inches, the diameter D₆₈₁ is about 0.375 inches, and thethrough diameter D₆₈₂ is about 0.201 inches.

Referring in particular to FIG. 69, in some embodiments, the diameterD₆₉₁ is about 0.5 inches, and the diameter D₆₉₂ is about 0.375 inches.

Some Embodiments of a Cable Swivel Attachment Device

FIGS. 70-72 show various views of certain embodiments of a cable swivelattachment or connector (and branch line restraint) device 10 c.Advantageously, in accordance with certain embodiments and/orinstallation applications, the cable swivel attachment 10 c can providea more cost-effective device.

The cable swivel attachment 10 c generally comprises a pair of malemating studs, members, elements, portions or sections 16 c 1, 16 c 2rotatably, swivelably or pivotably mechanically coupled or connected bya cable or wire rope 18 c which provides substantially independentrotational or motional degrees of freedom (or substantiallyindependently controllable degrees of freedom) of the male studs 16 c 1,16 c 2 relative to one another. As the skilled artisan will appreciate,the device 10 c can also be configured in a male-female or female-femaleconfiguration in accordance with certain other embodiments, as needed ordesired.

In some embodiments, the male studs 16 c 1, 16 c 2 generally compriserespective proximal base members, elements, portions or sections 52 c 1,52 c 2 from which respective male threaded rods, pins or connectors 54 c1, 54 c 2 extend. The male studs 16 cc 1, 16 c 2 are advantageouslysubstantially independently rotatable, pivotable or swivelable, relativeto one another as generally determined by the construction of thecoupling cable 18 c.

The male proximal portions 54 c 1, 54 c 2, in some embodiments, comprisethreaded rods of a particular size to matingly engage an installationcomponent, such as a female portion or threaded hole, opening or cavity,or the like. In modified embodiments, the male proximal portions 54 c 1,54 c 2 can efficaciously comprise other suitable male structures ormembers, such as, but not limited to connector pins, screws, bolts,other attachment devices with male features, or the like, as needed ordesired.

In certain embodiments, the cable or wire rope 18 c provides one or moreof bending, twisting and/or torsional degrees of freedoms for the malestuds 16 c 1, 16 c 2. These include, for example, but not limited to,pitch, yaw and/or roll motions or displacements. Any of the swivelattachment embodiments as disclosed, taught or suggested herein canefficaciously comprise rivets structures, cables or other rotation,swivel or pivot providing or enabling devices which desirably allow forsubstantially independent rotatable or swivel control of the devicemating members.

The male distal portions 52 c 1, 52 c 2, in some embodiments, compriseswedged features which allow for a secure connection to opposingportions or ends of the cable 18 c. In modified embodiments, the maledistal portions 52 c 1, 52 c 2 can efficaciously comprise other suitablelocking or clamping features to securely capture the cable 18 ctherebetween, as needed or desired.

In some embodiments, the male threaded portions 54 c 1, 54 c 2 areformed by using a standard ⅜-16 UNC 2B size tap drill format. Inmodified embodiments, other suitable thread sizes and the like can beefficaciously utilized, as needed or desired.

In certain embodiments, the cable 18 c comprises (7×19) strand corepre-stretched galvanized aircraft cable. In modified embodiments, othertypes of cables, wires, ropes and the like can be efficaciouslyutilized, as needed or desired.

The cable 18 c can be efficaciously dimensioned in various mannersdepending on the particular application. For example, the cable or wirerope 18 c can have a diameter of about 3.18 mm (⅛ inch), 4.76 mm ( 3/16inch), 6.35 mm (¼ inch), among other suitable diameters which aresmaller or larger, as needed or desired.

The methods which are described and illustrated herein are not limitedto the sequence of acts described, nor are they necessarily limited tothe practice of all of the acts set forth. Other sequences of acts, orless than all of the acts, or simultaneous occurrence of the acts, maybe utilized in practicing embodiments of the invention.

It is to be understood that any range of values disclosed, taught orsuggested herein comprises all values and sub-ranges therebetween. Forexample, a range from 5 to 10 will comprise all numerical values between5 and 10 and all sub-ranges between 5 and 10.

From the foregoing description, it will be appreciated that a novelapproach for a swivel attachment and/or branch restraint device has beendisclosed. While the components, techniques and aspects of the inventionhave been described with a certain degree of particularity, it ismanifest that many changes may be made in the specific designs,constructions and methodology herein above described without departingfrom the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

While a number of preferred embodiments of the invention and variationsthereof have been described in detail, other modifications and methodsof using for connection purposes and the like, such as, for sway/seismicbracing and/or supporting functions in construction and/or utilitiesapplications/installations for the same will be apparent to those ofskill in the art. Accordingly, it should be understood that variousapplications, modifications, and substitutions may be made ofequivalents without departing from the spirit of the invention or thescope of the claims.

Various modifications and applications of the invention may occur tothose who are skilled in the art, without departing from the true spiritor scope of the invention. It should be understood that the invention isnot limited to the embodiments set forth herein for purposes ofexemplification, but is to be defined only by a fair reading of theclaims, including the full range of equivalency to which each elementthereof is entitled.

1. A swivel attachment, comprising: a first member comprising a firstmating portion, the first mating portion comprising a female threadedportion; a second member comprising a second mating portion, the secondmating portion comprising a male threaded portion; a main body connectedto the second member, the main body comprising: a first wall having afirst hole, and a second wall opposite the first wall, the second wallhaving a second hole, wherein first member is partially between thefirst wall and the second wall, and wherein the first wall and thesecond define an opening which exposes the female threaded portion andis dimensioned to provide an angular degree of freedom for the femalethreaded portion, and wherein the first member is rotatable relative toa first axis of rotation about the angular degree of freedom; and aconnector extending from the first wall to the second wall, wherein thefirst hole and the second hole are substantially aligned with theconnector which couples with the first member.
 2. The swivel attachmentof claim 1, wherein the second member is independently rotatablerelative to a second axis of rotation that is spatially and angularlyoffset from the first axis of rotation.
 3. The swivel attachment ofclaim 2, wherein the first axis of rotation and the second axis ofrotation are substantially perpendicular to one another.
 4. The swivelattachment of claim 1, wherein the main body is generally U-shaped. 5.The swivel attachment of claim 1, wherein the second member comprises adistal portion with a through passage which is substantially alignedwith the first hole and the second hole, the connector extending throughthe pair of holes substantially aligned with the first hole and thesecond hole.
 6. The swivel attachment of claim 5, wherein the firstmember comprises a generally semi-circular groove which is configured torotatably receive the distal portion of the second member.
 7. A swivelattachment, comprising: an elongate first member comprising a firstengaging structure, the first engaging structure configured to rotateabout the longitudinal axis of the first member; an elongate secondmember having a longitudinal axis spatially and angularly offset fromthe longitudinal axis of the first member, wherein the second member hasa proximal end and a distal end, the distal end comprising a secondengaging structure; and a connector body comprising at least one pair ofwalls opposite each other, the at least one pair of walls defining aspace therebetween, and the first member positioned substantially withinthe space, and a coupling structure between the first member and thesecond member, and between the at least one pair of walls, wherein theat least one pair of walls and the coupling structure are substantiallyperpendicular to one another and, and wherein the coupling structure isconnected to the second engaging structure, and wherein the connectorbody couples with the first member and the second member to provide orenable the second engaging structure to substantially independentlyrotate relative to the first engaging structure.
 8. The swivelattachment of claim 7, wherein the longitudinal axes of the first memberand the second member are angularly offset by about 90°.
 9. The swivelattachment of claim 7, wherein the coupling structure comprises at leastone tubular rivet.
 10. The swivel attachment of claim 9, wherein the atleast one pair of walls comprises at least one pair of substantiallyaligned holes configured to receive the at least one tubular rivet. 11.The swivel attachment of claim 7, wherein the second member comprises amale threaded portion.
 12. The swivel attachment of claim 7, wherein thefirst engaging structure comprises a female threaded portion.
 13. Anassembly for support of a load used for the transport of utility fluids,comprising: a first installation component configured to support theload; a second installation component; and a swivel attachment havingtwo substantially independently controllable rotational degrees offreedom, comprising: a first portion configured to rotate about a firstrotation axis, and comprising a first mating structure, wherein thefirst mating structure is configured to matingly connect with the firstinstallation component; a second portion configured to rotate about asecond rotation axis and comprising a second mating structure, whereinthe second mating structure is configured to matingly connect with thesecond installation component; wherein the first portion and the secondportion define at least two substantially independently controllablerotational degrees of freedom, and wherein the first rotation axis andthe second rotation axis are spatially and angularly offset.
 14. Theassembly of claim 13, wherein the first installation component comprisesa male or female threaded portion and the load comprises a pipe.
 15. Theassembly of claim 13, wherein the second installation componentcomprises a support structure.
 16. The assembly of claim 15, wherein thesupport structure comprises one of a wooden ceiling or beam.
 17. Theassembly of claim 13, wherein the second installation componentcomprises a clamp.
 18. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the swivelattachment further comprises a coupling mechanism intermediate the firstportion and the second portion, and connecting the first portion and thesecond portion to provide or enable the at least two substantiallyindependently controllable rotational degrees of freedom between thefirst portion and the second portion.